A two-stage GIS-based optimization model for the dry port location problem: A case study of Iran

This article aims to investigate the location of dry ports by providing a two-stage GIS-optimization model. At the first stage, the appropriate points for establishing dry ports were identified using GIS and hierarchical analysis process; then, the suitable points were introduced as the potential points to the second stage model. At the second stage, by providing a multi-objective integer model, the location of the port and the transportation modes used to transship the goods from/to the dry port are investigated. Finally, the model is linearized using a heuristic method and, then, is developed using its robust counterpart in order to deal with the uncertainty in the model parameters. To investigate the performance of the model, the problem was solved using GAMS software for the case study of Iran. The obtained numerical results indicated that the use of the developed model and establishment of the dry port led to the reduced costs, reduced variable environmental effects of the seaport, improved accountability to the customers of these ports, and consequently increased competitiveness.